Local boards are the cornerstone of local control, serving as the true voices of their communities. In special districts, governance is not just a responsibility, it’s the essential function that boards bring to the table. By transforming the wishes, needs, and priorities of the public into actionable policies, boards ensure that their districts are responsive and well-managed. The effectiveness and survival of special districts hinge on the strength of their governance, which is why every public official must prioritize it. CSDA’s Special District Leadership Academy supports this mission by offering curriculum-based training that strengthens the partnership between board members and general managers. Designed for both new and experienced board members, the Academy equips participants with the skills and insights needed to lead collaboratively and uphold vital governance responsibilities, laying the foundation for achieving shared goals within their districts.
Attendees will learn:
• How to work as a team
• The roles of the board and staff
• Attributes and characteristics of highly effective boards
• How culture, norms, values, and operating style influence the district
• Specific jobs the board must perform
• How individual values, skills, and knowledge help to shape how effective boards operate
• The importance of moving from “I” to “we” as the governance team
• The board’s role in setting direction for the district; the board’s role in finance and fiscal accountability
• And more!
$825 Early Registration / $890 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,650 Early Registration / $1,780 Regular Registration Non-member
Send More – Save More
Special Discounted Pricing!
Additional attendees from the same district:
$565 each Early Registration / $625 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,130 each Early Registration / $1,250 Regular Registration Non-member
NOTE: You must complete the first-time attendee track to qualify for SDLF Certificate in Special District Governance.
SDLA Graduate? Join us for our Returning Attendee Track with Two Days of Breakout Sessions with topics such as (sample from previous year):
Building a Solid Financial Foundation
Navigating Community Engagement
Legislative Relations 201
Good Governance
Financial Reporting
Public Agencies and Lawyers
Detailed schedule can be found on the SDLA Website.
First-Time Attendee Schedule of Events
Monday 5/11/26
5:30 - 7:00 pm Registration and Networking Reception
Tuesday 5/12/26
8:30 am - 4:30 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
5:30 - 7:30 pm Sip and Savor Evening Reception
Wednesday 5/13/26
8:30 am - 4:00 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
Open Evening
Thursday 5/14/26
8:30 am - 12:00 pm First-Time Attendee Sessions
12:00 pm Graduation Certificate Distribution
Returning Attendee Schedule of Events
Monday 5/11/26
5:30 - 7:00 pm Registration and Networking Reception
Tuesday 5/12/26
8:30 am - 4:30 pm Returning Attendee Sessions
5:30 - 7:30 pm Sip and Savor Evening Reception
Wednesday 5/13/26
8:30 am - 4:00 pm Returning Attendee Sessions
4:00 pm Conference ends for Returning Attendees
$825 Early Registration / $890 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,650 Early Registration / $1,780 Regular Registration Non-member
Send More – Save More
Special Discounted Pricing!
Additional attendees from the same district:
$565 each Early Registration / $625 Regular Registration CSDA Member
$1,130 each Early Registration / $1,250 Regular Registration Non-member
Members: discounted pricing will automatically populate at checkout. Non-members: call to obtain discounted pricing for attendees 2, 3, 4, etc.
Interested in Exhibiting/Sponsoring? Check out all of the opportunities and register here.
Need help paying for this conference? Scholarship funds are available from the Special District Leadership Foundation (SDLF). Apply here
HOTEL ROOM RESERVATIONS: CSDA room reservations in the CSDA room block start at the rate of $199 plus tax and fees per day. The room reservation cut-off is April 15, 2026; however, space is limited and may sell out before this date.
Information regarding hotel reservations and links to book in the CSDA room block will be emailed within 24 hours of registration.
Cancellations must be in writing and received by CSDA no later than April 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. All cancellations received by this date will be refunded less a $100 cancellation fee. There will be no refunds for cancellations made after April 10, 2026. Substitutions to another attendee are possible but only for SDLA South (not transferable to another conference) and must be done in writing no later than April 29,2026, at 5:00 p.m. Please submit any cancellation notice or substitution requests to meganh@csda.net or fax to 916-520-2465.